Lighting apparatus

ABSTRACT

A lighting apparatus is disclosed for illuminating side surfaces of objects or equipment including, for example, vehicles including boats, retail and/or store shelving and/or equipment, bars, desks, counters, walls, railings, steps, and/or any other object or surface, as desired. In some embodiments, the lighting apparatus includes a bumper. When so provided, the lighting apparatus may help provide a level of protection to objects and/or surfaces that are subject to bumping, sliding or other abuse.

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/991,078, which is a continuation-in-partof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/372,643, both of which areincorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates to lights, and more particularly, tolights for illuminating, protecting and/or increasing the visual appealof an object or surface.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention provides a lighting apparatus that may beused to illuminate an object or surface. In one illustrative embodiment,the light apparatus is used to help improve the visibility of a vehicleby illuminating one or more side surfaces of the vehicle. The sidesurfaces of many vehicles provide a relatively large area that, whenilluminated, can significantly increase the visibility of the vehicle,especially at night. It is believed that by providing such visibility,vehicle safety can be significantly improved.

[0004] In other illustrative embodiments, the light apparatus may beused to illuminate other objects or equipment including, for example,retail and/or store shelving and/or equipment, bars, desks, counters,walls, railings, steps, and/or any other object or surface, as desired.In some embodiments, the lighting apparatus includes a bumper. When soprovided, the lighting apparatus may help provide a level of protectionto objects and/or surfaces that are subject to bumping, sliding or otherabuse. In other illustrative embodiments, the lighting apparatus may beused to increase the visual appeal of an object or surface, such as awall, a toy, an appliance or any other object, as desired.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Other objects of the present invention and many of the attendantadvantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated as thesame becomes better understood by reference to the following detaileddescription when considered in connection with the accompanyingdrawings, in which like reference numerals designate like partsthroughout the figures thereof and wherein:

[0006]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a boat having a first illustrativeboat lighting apparatus;

[0007]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a boat having another illustrativeboat lighting apparatus;

[0008]FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a boat hull having a number of boatlights, each directing light rays in a downward direction;

[0009]FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a boat hull having a number of boatlights, each directing light rays in an upward direction;

[0010]FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a boat hull having a number of boatlights, each directing light rays in forward and backward direction;

[0011]FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of a boathull having an illustrative elongated light apparatus;

[0012]FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional side view of a boat hullhaving another illustrative boat lighting apparatus;

[0013]FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another illustrative boat lightingapparatus in accordance with the present invention;

[0014]FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional side view of a boat hullhaving a boat lighting apparatus incorporated into a side bumperassembly;

[0015]FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional side view of a boat hullhaving a boat lighting apparatus incorporated into an outward extendinghull portion;

[0016]FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional side view of a boat hullhaving a telescoping boat lighting apparatus;

[0017]FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional side view of a boat hullhaving a threaded boat lighting apparatus;

[0018]FIG. 13 is a schematic view of an illustrative circuit forpowering the one or more light sources of the present invention;

[0019]FIG. 14 is a schematic view of another illustrative circuit forpowering the one or more light sources of the present invention;

[0020]FIG. 15 is a timing diagram showing one illustrative energizingscheme provided by the control block of FIG. 14;

[0021]FIG. 16 is a timing diagram showing another illustrativeenergizing scheme provided by the control block of FIG. 14;

[0022]FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a personal watercraft having aboat lighting apparatus mounted thereto;

[0023]FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative lightingapparatus that includes a bumper member;

[0024]FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative lightingapparatus that includes a bumper member, wherein at least a portion ofthe bumper member is adapted to transmit light;

[0025]FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus that includes a bumper member, wherein the bumpermember is adapted to receive a light source and transmit light;

[0026]FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative lightingapparatus that includes a carrier and a bumper member, wherein thecarrier is adapted to receive a light source;

[0027]FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus that includes a carrier that is adapted to receive alight source;

[0028]FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional side view of yet another illustrativelighting apparatus that includes a carrier that is adapted to receive alight source;

[0029]FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative Fresnellens that may be used in accordance various embodiments of the presentinvention;

[0030]FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus that includes a carrier that is adapted to receive alight source;

[0031]FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus that includes a carrier that is adapted to receive alight source;

[0032]FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus that includes a carrier, wherein the carrier includesa parabolic shaped recess for receiving a light source;

[0033]FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus that includes a carrier and a bumper member, whereinthe carrier includes a recess for receiving a light source;

[0034]FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus that includes a two piece carrier, wherein the firstpiece includes a recess for receiving a light source and the secondpiece provides a cover for the recess;

[0035]FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

[0036]FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional side view of yet another illustrativelighting apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

[0037]FIG. 32 is a schematic view of a truck with an illustrativelighting apparatus mounted to the side thereof;

[0038]FIG. 33 is a schematic view of an object that has an illustrativelighting apparatus mounted to the side thereof;

[0039]FIG. 34 is a schematic view of a tow line that includes anillustrative lighting apparatus in accordance with the presentinvention;

[0040]FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

[0041]FIG. 36A is a cross-sectional side view of the elongated bumpermember (or insert) 700 of FIG. 35, with the slit 706 in the closedposition;

[0042]FIG. 36B is a cross-sectional side view of the elongated bumpermember (or insert) of FIG. 35, with the slit in an open position;

[0043]FIG. 36C is a cross-sectional side view of the insert of FIG. 35,with the slit in an open position and with a slit latching mechanism;

[0044]FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus in accordance with the present invention;

[0045]FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative rub-railwith nubs in accordance with the present invention;

[0046]FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative lightingapparatus with nubs in accordance the present invention;

[0047]FIG. 40 is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative lightingapparatus for receiving an elongated light source;

[0048]FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus for receiving an elongated light source;

[0049]FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional side view of yet another illustrativelighting apparatus for receiving an elongated light source;

[0050]FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus for receiving an elongated light source;

[0051]FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative lightingapparatus with one or more legs for securing the lighting apparatus to asubstrate;

[0052]FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus with one or more legs for securing the lightingapparatus to a substrate;

[0053]FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional side view of the illustrativelighting apparatus of FIG. 45 with the one or more legs inserted througha substrate;

[0054]FIG. 47 is a cross-sectional side view of yet another illustrativelighting apparatus attached to a substrate;

[0055]FIG. 48 is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative lightingapparatus for securing an elongated light source to a substrate;

[0056]FIG. 49 is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative lightingapparatus for use with a stair or other ledge;

[0057]FIG. 50 is a schematic diagram of an illustrative appliance havingan elongated light source positioned along the body of the appliance;

[0058]FIG. 51 is a schematic diagram of an illustrative toy having anelongated light source positioned along the body of the toy; and

[0059]FIG. 52 is a schematic diagram of a solar powered lightingapparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0060]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a boat 10 having a firstillustrative boat lighting apparatus in accordance with the presentinvention. The boat is generally shown at 10, and includes an upper deck11 extending over a hull 16. The hull 16 extends generally down from theupper deck 11 toward an expected water line 13. The hull 16 may alsoextend generally inward, as shown.

[0061] Prior art navigation lights typically include forward runninglights 12 and a rear masthead light 14. The forward running lights 12typically include a red port light and a green starboard light. In manycases, the forward running lights 12 are provided in a relatively smallhousing mounted to the front of the boat. The rear masthead light 14 isshown mounted higher than the forward running lights 12, and is visiblefrom the front of the boat.

[0062] This lighting configuration may be adequate for experiencedboaters traveling in relatively low traffic waterways under good weatherconditions. However, under other conditions, they are less desirable.Many of today's waterways are extremely crowded, often occupied withhigh powered boats driven by inexperienced and inattentive boaters.

[0063] Safely operating a boat at night under these conditions can be achallenge. Depth perception is limited, and lights along the shorelinecan cast misleading reflections on the water. In many instances, simplyidentifying boats via the forward running lights 12 and the mastheadlight 14 can be difficult, let along determining the size, direction,speed, and other factors needed to safely travel the waterways.

[0064] To augment the basic running lights 12 and 14 shown in FIG. 1,the present invention contemplates providing a boat lighting apparatusthat improves the visibility of a boat by illuminating one or more sidesurfaces of the hull 16 of the boat 10. The hull 16 of the boat providesa relatively large area that, when illuminated, can significantlyincrease the visibility of a boat 10. In addition, the size, direction,and speed of a boat 10 can more readily be determined, even by novice orinattentive boaters. It is believed that by providing such visibility,boat safety can be significantly improved.

[0065] In the illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 1, a boat lightingapparatus 18 is provided along the length of the hull 16 of the boat 10.The boat lighting apparatus 18 includes one or more light sources forproducing light rays 20. The boat lighting apparatus 18 may be mountedto the boat and configured such that at least a portion of the lightrays 20 illuminate a portion of the hull 16. In the embodiment shown,the boat lighting apparatus 18 provides light rays 20 that illuminate asubstantial portion of the outer surface of the hull 16. Although notshown, the boat lighting apparatus 18 may continue around the perimeterof the boat hull 16, and illuminate both side surfaces of the hull andthe back surface of the hull. The boat lighting apparatus 18 may providea different color light for each side of the boat, such as a red lighton the port side, a green light on the starboard side and a while lighton the back side.

[0066] It is contemplated that the boat lighting apparatus 18 may or maynot include a redirector (see below) for redirecting at least a portionof the light rays 20 to the side surface of the hull 16. The redirectormay also prevent at least a portion of the light rays from travelinghorizontally away and/or upward from the hull 16 of the boat 10.

[0067] A method of the present invention includes the steps of providingone or more light sources, and mounting the one or more light sources tothe boat such that when energized, the one or more light sourcesilluminate a side surface of the hull 16.

[0068]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a boat having another illustrativeboat lighting apparatus. The boat is generally shown at 30, and includesan upper deck 31 extending over a hull 32. The hull 32 extends generallydown from the upper deck 31 toward an expected water line 34. The hull32 may also extends generally inward, as shown. In this embodiment, anumber of boat lights 36 a, 36 b, 36 c and 36 d are mounted to the hull32 of the boat 30. Boat lights 36 a and 36 b are mounted to thestarboard side of the hull 32, and boat lights 36 c and 36 d are mountedto the back of the hull 32.

[0069] In the illustrative embodiment, each of the boat lights 36 a, 36b, 36 c and 36 d includes at least one light source for producing anumber of light rays and an elongated carrier for carrying the at leastone light sources. The elongated carrier is preferably adapted fordirecting the light rays down to the boat hull 32 along a longitudinallyextending axis, wherein the longitudinally extending axis has a lengththat is substantially longer than the width of the carrier, as shown.FIGS. 3-5 below show a number of illustrative placements for the lightsof, for example, FIGS. 2, 6-12, 18-31, and 35-48.

[0070] It is also contemplated that when the upper deck 31 includes oneor more relatively vertically extending surfaces, additional boat lights38 may be provided to illuminate these side surfaces as well. This mayeven further increase the visibility of the boat 30.

[0071]FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a boat hull having a number of boatlights, each directing light rays in a downward direction. Whilerectangular shaped boat lights are shown, it is contemplated that theboat lights may assume any desired shape. A hull is illustrated at 40with a number of boat lights 40 a, 40 b, 40 c and 40 d mounted thereto.Boat lights 40 a and 40 b are shown mounted near the top of hull 40 andprovide light rays in a generally downward direction. Boat lights 40 cand 40 d are shown mounted in an intermediate location on hull 40, andalso provide light rays in a generally downward direction.

[0072] It is recognized that only the upper row of boat lights 40 a and40 b may be necessary to illuminate the boat hull 40 down to theexpected water line. Some hull designs may curve significantly inwardtoward the expected water line. For these boat hulls, it has been foundthat water at the water line of the boat may reflect some of the lightprovided by the upper row of boat lights 40 a and 40 b toward the hullof the boat. In some embodiments, one or more lower rows of boat lights,such as boat lights 40 c and 40 d, may be provided to help illuminatethe lower portion of the boat hull 40, if desired.

[0073]FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a boat hull having a number of boatlights, each directing light rays in an upward direction. A hull isillustrated at 46 with a number of boat lights 48 a and 48 b mountedthereto. Boat lights 48 a and 48 b are shown mounted on a lower portionof hull 46, and provide light rays in a generally upward direction.

[0074]FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a boat hull having a number of boatlights, each directing light rays in forward and backward direction. Ahull is illustrated at 50 with a number of boat lights 52 a and 52 bmounted thereto. Boat lights 52 a and 52 b are shown mounted on the hull50, and may provide light rays in either a forward direction, a backwarddirection, or both. For example, boat light 52 a may provide light rays54 a in a generally backward direction, light rays 54 b in a generallyforward direction, or both.

[0075]FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of a boathull 60 having an illustrative elongated boat lighting apparatus 66. Theboat hull 60 includes a generally downward extending portion 62 thatextends to an expected water line 64. The boat hull 60 may also includea bumper assembly 70 for protecting the boat hull 60 from docks or thelike. The bumper assembly 70 is shown mounted on a top portion of thedownward extending portion 62 of the boat hull 60 via mounting bolt 72.

[0076] The elongated boat lighting apparatus 66 is shown mounted to thedownward extending portion 62 just below the bumper assembly 70. Theelongated boat lighting apparatus 66 includes at least one light sourcefor producing a number of light rays as shown, and an elongated carrierfor carrying the at least one light source. The elongated carrier ispreferably at least partially transparent to allow the light raysproduced by the one or more light source to exit the carrier. In theembodiment shown, the light rays exit the carrier in various directionsincluding down to the downward extending portion 62 of the boat hull 60,horizontally away from the boat hull 60, and upward toward the bumperassembly 70. However, in some embodiments, a redirector (not shown) maybe positioned adjacent the top and outer side of the carrier to redirectsubstantially all of the light rays to the downward extending portion 62of the boat hull 60. The redirector may include, for example, a separateshield placed around the top and outer side of the carrier, a reflectivecoating positioned on the top and outer side surface of the carrier, orportions of the carrier may be made non-transparent. Alternatively, orin addition, the elongated boat lighting apparatus 66 may beincorporated into the bumper assembly 70, similar to that shown in FIG.9.

[0077] It is contemplated that the one or more light sources 88 (as wellas the other light sources referenced throughout the drawings) may beany type of light source including an incandescent light source, afluorescent light source, a light emitting diode (LED), any type oflaser including one or more vertical cavity surface emitting lasers(VCSEL), a phosphor material, a glow in the dark material, or any othertype of light source, either active or passive, that is capable ofproducing visible light.

[0078] In some embodiments, the one or more light sources may include anelongated light source, such as an electro-luminescent wire. One suchelectro-luminescent wire is commercially available from SolutionIndustries, located in Cypress, Tex., under the Trademark Flex Wire®.Another such electro-luminescent wire is commercially available fromELAM Electro-luminescent Industries Ltd., located in Jerusalem, Israel,under the Trademark LyTec™. Alternatively, or in addition, the one ormore light sources may be a string of light sources, such as a string ofincandescent light sources. One such string of light sources isavailable from Light Tech, Inc., located in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

[0079] It is also contemplated the one or more light sources may includea light guide, such as a solid or multi-strand fiber optic cable or anyother type of light transmitting medium that can transmit light rays.When so provided, the actual source of light may be located remotely, ifdesired, and coupled to the fiber optic cable or other type of lighttransmitting medium that can deliver the light rays to the desiredlocation. One particularly suitable fiber optic cable is a linearemitting fiber, which emits light out of the side of the fiber. One suchlinear emitting fiber is available from Lumenyte InternationalCorporation, Irvine, Calif., under the Trademark STA-FLEX® LEF™ LinearEmitting Fiber. More information on Linear Emitting Fibers can be foundin, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,289,150, 6,282,355, 6,251,311,5,987,199, 5,937,127, 5,903,695, RE36,157, all of which are incorporatedherein by reference. Traditional fiber optical cable may also be used,if desired.

[0080] It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the light source mayinclude a UV stabilizer, UV absorber and/or UV filter. For example, somecommercially available electro-luminescent wires include a polymercoating or sleeve over the electro-luminescent material. It iscontemplated that the polymer coating or sleeve may include a UVstabilizer, UV absorber and/or UV filter to help limit the deteriorationof the polymer coating and/or electro-luminescent material. A preferredUV absorber is Sanduvor PR25, available from Clariant Corp., Charlotte,N.C., which operates using photoreactive chemistry. However, other UVstabilizers, UV absorbers, and UV filters may be used, as desired.

[0081]FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional side view of a boat hullhaving another illustrative boat lighting apparatus. The boat hull 80includes a generally downward extending portion 82 that extends to anexpected water line. The boat hull 80 may also include a bumper assembly100 for protecting the boat hull 80 from docks or the like. The bumperassembly 100 is shown mounted on a top portion of the downward extendingportion 82 of the boat hull 80 via mounting bolt 106.

[0082] In the illustrative embodiment, boat lighting apparatus 84 ismounted to the downward extending portion 82, just below the bumperassembly 100. The boat lighting apparatus 84 includes one or more lightsources 88 for providing light rays, a housing 86 for carrying the lightsource 88, and a mount 91 for mounting the housing 86 to the boat. Themount 91 is shown bolted to the side of the downward extending portion82 of the hull via a bolt or screw 92. It is contemplated, however, thatany number of means may be used to attach the mount to the boatincluding an adhesive or the like.

[0083] The housing 86 preferably has at least one opening 90 fordirecting the light rays 94 to at least a portion of the hull of theboat. In the illustrative embodiment shown, the housing 86 includes awall that extends around three sides of the light source 88, leaving theone opening 90 on the fourth downward side. Such a configuration notonly helps direct the light rays 94 toward the hull of the boat, butalso helps prevent at least a portion of the light rays from travelinglaterally away from the hull of the boat. The inside surface of thehousing 86 may be reflective, and may be shaped to help redirect thelight rays 94 in a downward direction toward the hull of the boat. Thehousing 86 may also include a bracket (not shown) for carrying the oneor more light sources 88.

[0084] A transparent or semi-transparent plate may be positioned acrossthe opening 90. The transparent or semi-transparent plate may beconstructed as a lens or the like to help redirect and/or focus thelight on the hull of the boat. It is also contemplated that thetransparent or semi-transparent plate may include a pattern providedthereon or therein to cause an image to be projected onto the hull ofthe boat. Finally, the transparent or semitransparent plate may helpprotect the one or more light sources 88 from water or other undesirableenvironmental conditions.

[0085] In some embodiments, the transparent or semi-transparent platemay include a UV stabilizer, UV absorber and/or UV filter. The remainderof the housing 86 may also include a UV stabilizer, UV absorber and/orUV filter. This may help prevent deterioration of the transparent orsemi-transparent plate and/or housing 86, and may limit the amount of UVradiation that engages the one or more light sources. This may helpextend the life of the light assembly, especially when exposed to sunlight. It is contemplated that UV stabilizers, UV absorbers and/or UVfilters may be applied to the carriers, housings, light sources, andother parts of the various embodiments disclosed herein, as desired.

[0086] To enhance the illumination of the hull of the boat, it iscontemplated that a reflective medium 96 may be provided in or on theouter surface of the boat as shown. The reflective medium preferablyhelps reflect the light rays 94 laterally outward and away from the hullof the boat to enhance the visibility of the boat. It is contemplatedthat the reflective medium may be patterned to form an image. The imagemay be, for example, the name of the boat, advertising logos or anyother desired image.

[0087]FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another illustrative boat lightingapparatus in accordance with the present invention. This illustrativeboat lighting apparatus includes a round housing 120 that has an outerplate 122 and an inner plate 124. The inner plate 124 is preferablypositioned adjacent the boat hull when installed, and includes a hole128 for receiving wires or the like to power a local light source. Whilea round housing is shown, it is contemplated that the housing 120 may beany shape.

[0088] A side plate 126 extends around part of the perimeter of theouter plate 122 and the inner plate 124. In the embodiment shown, theside plate 126 extends around the perimeter of about the upper half ofthe outer plate 122 and inner plate 124, leaving the perimeter aroundthe lower half open. A light source (not shown) is preferably providedin the space between the outer plate 122 and the inner plate 124. Inthis configuration, the outer plate 122, inner plate 124 and side plate126 help redirect the light rays provided by the light source downwardthrough the opening toward the hull of the boat.

[0089] A transparent or semi-transparent plate 130 may extends aroundthe lower perimeter of the outer plate 122 and the inner plate 124. Thetransparent or semitransparent plate 130 helps protect the light sourcefrom water and other undesirable environmental conditions. It iscontemplated that the transparent or semi-transparent plate may beconfigured as a lens or the like to help focus or redirect the lightrays to the hull of the boat. One such transparent or semi-transparentplate is illustrated at 132, and has an outer surface 134 that tapersinward toward the boat. Because the lens is thicker away from the boat,the light rays traveling parallel to the hull of the boat are refractedmore than those light rays that are already traveling toward the hull ofthe boat. This may help increase the illumination of the hull of theboat.

[0090]FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional side view of a boat hull withyet another boat lighting apparatus. This embodiment is similar to thatshown in FIG. 7, but has the boat lighting apparatus integrated orincorporated into the bumper assembly 144. The bumper assembly 144includes a flexible bumper guard 146 attached to an elongated housing148. The elongated housing 148 is attached to the hull of the boat via abolt or screw 150. The elongated housing 148 preferably has a cavitytherein for receiving one or more light sources 152. The cavity ispreferably open along the lower surface thereof to allow the light rays158 to illuminate the hull of the boat.

[0091]FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional side view of a boat hullhaving a boat lighting apparatus incorporated into an outward extendinghull portion. In this embodiment, the boat hull 180 includes an outwardextending hull portion 184. The boat lighting apparatus 190 may then beprovided in a cavity 192 provided in the lower surface of the outwardextending hull portion 184. Alternatively, a boat lighting apparatussimilar to that shown in FIG. 7, for example, may be mounted to a lowersurface 193 of the outward extending hull portion 184 to illuminate thehull of the boat.

[0092]FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional side view of a boat hullhaving a telescoping boat lighting apparatus. In this embodiment, theboat lighting apparatus 210 has a housing that includes a telescopinglever for allowing the light source to be selectively pulled laterallyaway from the boat. When extended, the light source is further away fromthe boat hull, thereby increasing the angle of incidence of the lightrays 218 at the hull of the boat. By increasing the angle of incidence,the amount of light that is reflected laterally away from the boat maybe increased, thereby increasing the visibility of the hull. Whencontracted, the boat lighting apparatus 210 is preferably safely out ofthe way to reduce the chance that the boat lighting apparatus 210 willbecome damaged by other boats, docks or the like.

[0093]FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional side view of a boat hullhaving a threaded boat lighting apparatus. In this embodiment, the boatlighting apparatus 258 includes a threaded end 262. The threaded end 262preferably is adapted to engage a threaded hole in the hull of the boat.This allows the boat lighting apparatus 258 to be easily removed fromthe hull of the boat during, for example, daylight hours. In theillustrative embodiment, the boat lighting apparatus 258 is mounted nearthe top of the hull 250 so that boater inside the boat can easily removethe lights. In this configuration, a laterally extending portion 256 maybe provided to extend the light source a sufficient distance away fromthe boat hull to adequately illuminate the hull of the boat. While theboat lighting apparatus 258 is shown mounted near the top of the hull250, it is contemplated that the boat lighting apparatus 258 may bemounted anywhere on the boat, including further down on the downwardextending portion 252.

[0094]FIG. 13 is a schematic view of an illustrative circuit forpowering the one or more light sources of the present invention. In theembodiment shown, a power source 300 is coupled to one or more lightsources 304 a and 304 b via switch 302. The one or more light sources304 a and 304 b are preferably coupled in a parallel configuration withpower source 300, as shown. This allows each light source 304 a and 304b to continue to operate even when one or more of the remaining lightsources bums out or otherwise becomes damaged. The power source 300 maybe any type of power source, but preferably is the boat battery, theboat alternator, or any other type of power source that is capable ofproperly driving the one or more light sources 304 a and 304 b.

[0095]FIG. 14 is a schematic view of another illustrative circuit forpowering the one or more light sources of the present invention. In thisembodiment, an electronic control circuit 320 provides power to each ofa number of light sources 324 a, 324 b and 324 c.

[0096] The electronic control circuit receives power from a power source322, and may be any type of control circuit that provides the desiredfunctionality. Preferably, the control circuit is a simple statemachine, a microprocessor, or any other type of control circuit.

[0097]FIG. 15 is a timing diagram showing one illustrative energizingscheme that can be provided by the control circuit 320 of FIG. 14. Inthis illustrative embodiment, the control circuit 320 simultaneouslyprovides energizing pulses 330, 332 and 334 to light sources 324 a, 324b and 324 c, respectively, for example at time 336. Each of theenergizing pulses 330, 332 and 334 has the same duration. Accordingly,this causes each of the light sources 324 a, 324 b and 324 c to blink“on” during the corresponding energizing pulse, and “off” after theenergizing pulse terminates. After a time period, all of the lightsources 324 a, 324 b and 324 c are again energized. This causes each ofthe light sources 324 a, 324 b and 324 c to simultaneously blink “on”and “off”. It is believed that a blinking light may increase thevisibility of the hull, especially for inattentive boaters.

[0098]FIG. 16 is a timing diagram showing another illustrativeenergizing scheme that can be provided by the control circuit 320 ofFIG. 14. In this illustrative embodiment, each of the light sources isenergized in a sequential manner. For example, light source 324 a isenergized by energizing pulse 340 at time 342. Later, light source 324 bis energized by energizing pulse 344 at time 346. Finally, light source324 c is energized. This sequence may be repeated. In a preferredembodiment, the light sources 324 a, 324 b and 324 c are spacedlongitudinally along the length of the boat. By illuminating the lightsources in sequence, a moving or sweeping pattern may be generatedacross the hull of the boat. This may further increase the visibility ofthe hull of the boat. It is recognized that the embodiments shown inFIGS. 14-16 are only illustrative, and that numerous other lightingsequences can be used.

[0099]FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a personal watercraft having oneor more boat lights 402 and 404 mounted thereto. Boat lights 402 and 404are preferably similar to that described herein and preferablyilluminate at least a portion of the side surfaces of the personalwatercraft. While a personal watercraft is shown in FIG. 17, it iscontemplated that the boat lighting apparatus of the present inventionmay be used to light the side surfaces of airplanes, snowmobiles,automobiles, all terrain vehicles, or any other type of “vehicle” asthat term is used in the most general sense, to increase theirvisibility to outside observers.

[0100]FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus of the present invention. The illustrative lightingapparatus is generally shown at 410, and includes a carrier 412, abumper member 414, and a light source 416. The carrier 412 includes aback support 420, a top support 422 and a bottom support 424, as shown.The terms “back”, “bottom” and “top” are only used herein as relativeterms to help describe the Figures. They are not intended to imply thatthe bottom support 420 must be below the top support 422 when thecarrier 412 is actually mounted to an object. The top support 422 andbottom support 424 are shown extending from the top 426 and bottom 428ends, respectively, of the back support 420 in a leftward direction. Thetop support 422 and bottom support 424 terminate to define a gap or slot430 therebetween.

[0101] The bumper member 414 is shown positioned in the gap or slot 430.The bumper member 414 preferably has an outer facing portion 432 that issized to fit into the slot 430, and one or more inner facing legs 434 aand 434 b that extend into the cavity formed by the top support 422 andbottom support 424 of the carrier 412. The one or more legs 434 a and434 b preferably have a dimension that exceeds the lateral dimension ofthe slot 430, which helps secure the bumper member 414 to the carrier412. In some embodiments, the bumper member 414 and/or carrier 412 areat least somewhat deformable, so that the bumper member 414 and/or theelongated carrier 412 can or must be elastically deformed (e.g bent orotherwise deformed) to allow the one or more legs 434 a and 434 b of thebumper member 414 to slip through the slot 430. The bumper member 414may also have one or more holes or lumens 440 a and 440 b. These holesor lumens 440 a and 440 b may decrease the rigidness of the bumpermember 414, as desired.

[0102] In one illustrative embodiment, the back support 420, top support422 and bottom support 424 of the carrier 412 are integrally formed byextrusion, although this is not required. In some embodiments, the backsupport 420, top support 422 and bottom support 424 of the carrier 412are made from a relatively rigid material, such as Vinyl, PVC, aluminum,or any other suitable material.

[0103] The bumper member 414 may also be formed by extruding a materialsuch as Vinyl, PVC, rubber, or any other suitable material. However,like above, this is not required. Preferably, the bumper member 414 isformed from a softer material than the carrier 412, but this is also notrequired.

[0104] In the illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 18, the carrier 412has an inner support member 436 that is curved to form a light receivingopening or cavity 438. In the illustrative embodiment, the inner supportmember 436 is adapted to receive and secure an elongated light source416. In a preferred embodiment, the elongated light source 416 is anelectro-luminescent wire or a Linear emitting fiber, as detailed above.However, it is contemplated that the elongated light source 416 may beany type of light source, including those discussed above.

[0105] The inner support member 436 may be at least partiallytransparent or nontransparent. When the inner support member 436 isnon-transparent, the light emitted by the light source is directed in adownward direction toward the bottom support 424 of the carrier 412.When so provided, at least a portion of the bottom support 424 ispreferably at least partially transparent. This may be accomplished by,for example, forming the bottom support 424 or a portion thereof from amaterial that is at least semi-transparent. Alternatively, holes orslots may be provided in the bottom support 424 to allow the light topass through the bottom support 424. In some embodiments, the holes orslots may be spaced holes or slots that are spaced along the length ofthe bottom support 424. Such spaced holes or slots may be formed by, forexample, periodically interrupting the extrusion material along thebottom support 424. Other methods may also be used, such as cutting,drilling or otherwise forming spaced holes or slots. Spaced holes orslots may be used in other embodiments described herein, if desired.

[0106] In some embodiments, the back support 420, top support 422 andbottom support 424 may be formed from a transparent or semi-transparentmaterial. In other embodiments, only selected portions may be formedfrom a transparent or semitransparent material. For example, the bottomsupport 424, or portion thereof, may be formed from a transparent orsemi-transparent material. In this latter case, the back support 420,top support 422 and bottom support 424 may be co-extruded using anontransparent and transparent or semi-transparent material, with thetransparent or semitransparent material corresponding to the portionthat is to transmit light. Alternatively, the bottom support 424, or theportion thereof that is to pass light, may be separately formed andsubsequently attached, if desired.

[0107] In another illustrative embodiment, the inner support member 436or a portion thereof may be made from a transparent or semi-transparentmaterial to pass light toward the bumper member 414. In thisillustrative embodiment, the bumper member 414, or a portion thereof,may also be formed from a transparent or semi-transparent material. Whenso provided, the light from the light source 416 may pass through theinner support member 436, through the bumper member 414, and away fromthe carrier 412. In use, the back support 420 is preferably positionedadjacent a mounting surface and mounted thereto.

[0108] It is contemplated that the bumper member 414 and/or carrier 412,or parts thereof, may be made using materials of different colors, asdesired. Also, it is contemplated that the light source may be selectedto produce a desired color of light.

[0109]FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus of the present invention. The illustrative lightingapparatus includes a carrier 450, a bumper member 452, and a lightsource 454. The carrier 450 includes a back support 456, a top support458 and a bottom support 460, as shown. The top support 458 and bottomsupport 460 are shown extending from the top and bottom ends,respectively, of the back support 456 in a leftward direction. The topsupport 458 and bottom support 460 terminate to define a gap or slot 462therebetween.

[0110] The bumper member 452 is shown positioned in the gap or slot 462,as described above. In the illustrative embodiment, the back surface 464of the bumper member 452 and the front surface 466 of the back support456 are shaped to form a light receiving channel, opening or cavity. Inthe illustrative embodiment, the light receiving channel, opening orcavity is adapted to receive and secure an elongated light source 454.It is contemplated that the elongated light source 454 may be any typeof light source, including those identified herein.

[0111] The bumper member 452, or a portion thereof, is preferably formedfrom a transparent or semi-transparent material. When so provided, thelight from the light source 454 may pass through the bumper member 452,and away from the carrier 450 as shown by lines 468.

[0112]FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus in accordance with the present invention. In thisillustrative embodiment, the bumper member 470 includes one or moreholes, slots or lumens 472. A light source 474 is then positioned in oneor more of the holes, slots or lumens 472. Only one light source 474 isshown in FIG. 20. The bumper member 470, or a portion thereof, ispreferably formed from a transparent or semi-transparent material. Whenso provided, the light from the light source 474 may pass through thetransparent or semi-transparent portion of the bumper member 470 andaway from the carrier 478, as shown by lines 476.

[0113] When more than one light source 474 is provided, each lightsource 474 may be situated in a different one of the holes or lumens472, but this is not required. Selected light sources may be selected toproduce different colors. Alternatively, or in addition, the portion ofthe bumper member 470 adjacent selected light sources may be formed frommaterials of different colors. In some embodiments, this may provide theappearance of one or more stripes of colors along the bumper member 470.

[0114]FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus in accordance with the present invention. In thisillustrative embodiment, the lighting apparatus includes a carrier 490,a bumper member 492, and a light source 494. The carrier 490 includes aback support 496, a top support 498 and a bottom support 500, as shown.Like above, the top support 498 and bottom support 500 terminate todefine a gap or slot for receiving the bumper member 492.

[0115] In some embodiments, the back support 496, top support 498 andbottom support 500 of the carrier are made from a relatively rigidmaterial, such as Vinyl, PVC, aluminum, or any other suitable material.The bumper member 492 may also be formed by, for example, extruding amaterial such as Vinyl, PVC, rubber, aluminum or any other suitablematerial. However, like above, this is not required. Preferably, thebumper member 492 is formed from a softer material than the carrier, butthis is also not required.

[0116] In the illustrative embodiment, the back support 496 and thebottom support 500 are joined together through a light carrying member502. Although not shown in FIG. 21, it is contemplated that the backsupport 496 and the top support 498 may also be joined together throughanother light carrying member, if desired, to provide light in an upwarddirection. The light carrying member 502 preferably defines a channel,cavity or recess for receiving the light source 494. Preferably, thecavity or recess is sized to receive the light source and secure thelight source 494 to the carrier 490. In the illustrative embodiment, thecavity or recess has a receiving slot 504 for receiving the light source494. In a preferred embodiment, the light source 494 is an elongatedlight source such as an electro-luminescent wire or a Linear EmittingFiber, as detailed above. However, it is contemplated that the lightsource 494 may be any type of light source, including those identifiedherein.

[0117]FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional side view of yet another illustrativelighting apparatus in accordance with the present invention. In thisillustrative embodiment, the lighting apparatus includes a carrier 510.For simplicity, the bumper member and light source are not shown. Thecarrier 510 includes a back support 512, a top support 514 and a bottomsupport 516, as shown. Like above, the top support 514 and bottomsupport 516 terminate to define a gap or slot 518 for receiving a bumpermember.

[0118] In the illustrative embodiment, the bottom support 516 is shapedto provide a light carrying channel, cavity or recess 518. The lightcarrying channel, cavity or recess 518 preferably is sized to receive alight source. In the illustrative embodiment, the channel, cavity orrecess 518 preferably has a transparent or semi-transparent portion 520for passing light in a downward direction. The transparent orsemi-transparent portion 520 may be co-extruded with the rest of thecarrier 510, which may be made from a nontransparent material, ifdesired. Alternatively, the transparent or semi-transparent portion 520may be formed separately, and subsequently secured to the bottom support516.

[0119] In either case, and in some embodiments, the transparent orsemi-transparent portion 520 may be shaped to form a Fresnel lens, asshown in FIG. 24. A Fresnel lens may help collect and focus the lightthat is emitted by the light source. A Fresnel lens may also helpminimize the amount of absorption in the lens by reducing the thicknessof the lens. Other lens shapes may also be used.

[0120]FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional side view of yet another illustrativelighting apparatus in accordance with the present invention. Thisillustrative embodiment is similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 22.However, the bottom support 530 is shaped to provide a larger cavity 532for receiving a bumper member. Further, the wall thickness of the bottomsupport 530 is maintained along its length. In the illustrativeembodiment, this is accomplished by moving the central axis 536 of thelight carrying cavity or recess 534 further down and/or away from thecarrier.

[0121]FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus in accordance with the present invention. Thisillustrative embodiment is similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 21.However, the cavity or recess 540 does not have a receiving slot forreceiving the light source 494. Instead, a wall encircles the cavity orrecess 540. In one embodiment, a lower portion 542 of the wallencircling the cavity or recess 540 is formed from a transparent orsemi-transparent material. The remainder of the wall encircling thecavity or recess 540 may be at least partially reflective, but this isnot required.

[0122]FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus in accordance with the present invention. Thisillustrative embodiment is similar to that shown in FIG. 25. However,the cavity or recess 550 has a receiving slot 552 for receiving a lightsource 554. The receiving slot 552 is shown opening into the innercavity 556 of the carrier 558. To install the light source 554 into thecavity or recess 550, the bottom support 560 may be pulled away from theback support 562. Preferably, the bottom support 560 and/or back support562 temporarily elastically deform to open the receiving slot 552 andreceive the light source 554. Once the light source 554 is in the cavityor recess 550, the bottom support 560 may be returned or nearly returnedto its original position relative to the back support 562. The bumpermember 564 is then installed, also preferably by elastic deformation ofthe bumper member 564 and/or carrier 558. Like the embodiment shown inFIG. 25, it is contemplated that a lower portion 566 of the wallencircling the cavity or recess 550 may be formed from a transparent orsemi-transparent material. The remainder of the wall encircling thecavity or recess 550 may be at least partially reflective, but this isnot required.

[0123]FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional side view of yet another illustrativelighting apparatus in accordance with the present invention. In thisillustrative embodiment, a parabolic shaped recess or cavity 580 isformed in the bottom support 582. A parabolic shape may help collect anddirect the light emitted by the light source 584 in a particulardirection, particular if the walls of the parabolic shaped recess orcavity 580 are at least partially reflective. In some embodiments, theaxis 586 of the parabolic shaped recess or cavity 580 may be offsetrelative to a vertical axis 588 to help direct the light rays toward anobject, such as an object that the carrier 590 is mounted.

[0124] A lens or cover 594 may be provided to cover the parabolic shapedrecess or cavity 580, if desired. In some illustrative embodiments, oneor more receiving slots 596 and 598 may be provided for receiving theedges of the lens or cover 594. In other illustrative embodiments, thelens or cover may be co-extruded or otherwise integrally formed orsecurely attached to the carrier 590.

[0125]FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus in accordance with the present invention. Thisillustrative embodiment includes a “D” shaped carrier 600 having abumper receiving slot 602. A bumper member 604 may be provided in thebumper receiving slot 602. The bumper member 604 may be an elongatedtube that is sized to fit within the bumper receiving slot 602, asshown. Like the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 27, a parabolic shapedrecess or cavity 606 is provided in a bottom portion of the “D” shapedcarrier 600. A lens or cover 608 may be provided to cover the parabolicshaped recess or cavity 606, if desired. In the illustrative embodiment,the lens or cover is co-extruded or otherwise integrally formed orsecurely attached to the “D” shaped carrier 600, but this is notrequired.

[0126] A light source 610 is shown positioned in the parabolic shapedrecess or cavity 606. One or more light source support members 612 maybe provided to help secure the light source 610 in the parabolic shapedrecess or cavity 606. In some embodiments, the one or more light sourcesupport members 612 may help secure the light source 610 at or near thefocal point of the parabolic shaped recess or cavity 606.

[0127]FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional side view of yet another illustrativelighting apparatus in accordance with the present invention. In thisillustrative embodiment, a carrier 620 is provided with a lightreceiving channel, cavity or recess 622 formed in the bottom support624. A light source 626 is positioned within the light receivingchannel, cavity or recess 622. The illustrative carrier 620 has a backsupport 626 that is adapted to be adjacent a mounting surface.

[0128] A mating member 628 is also provided. The mating member 628 mayinclude a back support 630 and a lens or cover portion 632. The matingmember 628 preferably mates with the back support 626 of the carrier620. The lens or cover portion 632, or a portion thereof, preferably isshaped to cover the light receiving cavity or recess 622 formed in thebottom support 624. A slot may be provided in the bottom support 624 ofthe carrier 620 to receive a lip 634 of the lens or cover portion 632,if desired.

[0129] In one illustrative embodiment, the carrier 620 may be made froma material that is non-transparent and at least partially reflective.The mating member 628 may be made from a material that is at leastsemi-transparent. Alternatively, only the lens or cover portion 632 ofthe mating member 628 may be made from a material that is at leastsemitransparent. In other embodiments, the carrier 620 may be made froma material that is at least partially transparent, and the mating membermay be made from a material that is non-transparent and at leastpartially reflective. In any case, it is contemplated that the matingmember 628 may be made separate from the carrier 620.

[0130]FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus in accordance with the present invention. In thisillustrative embodiment, no separate bumper member is provided. Instead,an elongated tube 640 is provided with a mounting support 642 extendingtherefrom. A spacer support 644 may also be provided to help space thetube 640 from the mounting surface. A light source (not shown) can bepositioned within the inner lumen 648 of the tube 640, as desired. Atleast a portion of the tube 640 is preferably at least semi-transparentto allow at least some of the light rays from the light source to exitfrom the tube 640. In one embodiment, portion 645, portion 646, or both,are at least semi-transparent. In some embodiments, the tube 640 isadapted to prevent light rays from traveling in a first direction awayfrom the tube 640 while allowing light rays to travel in a seconddifferent direction away from the tube 640.

[0131]FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional side view of yet another illustrativelighting apparatus in accordance with the present invention. Like theembodiment shown in FIG. 30, this illustrative embodiment also does nothave a separate bumper member. Instead, an elongated member 650 isprovided with a mounting region 652 and a light source receiving region654. The light source receiving region 654 includes a light sourcereceiving cavity or recess 656, which receives a light source 658. Theelongated member 650 may be made from a non-transparent or at leastsemi-transparent material, as desired.

[0132] As indicated above, it is contemplated that some embodiments ofthe present invention may be used to illuminate vehicles, such as boats(including barges), cars, trucks, etc., preferably by illuminating oneor more side surfaces of the vehicle. The side surfaces of many vehiclesprovide a relatively large area that, when illuminated, cansignificantly increase the visibility of the vehicle, especially atnight. It is believed that by providing such visibility, vehicle safetycan be significantly improved. FIG. 32 is a schematic view of a truck660 with an illustrative lighting apparatus 662 mounted to the sidethereof. The illustrative truck 660 includes a cab 664 and a trailer666, with an illustrative lighting apparatus 662 mounted along a loweredge 668 of the trailer 666. The illustrative lighting apparatus 662 maybe similar to those described herein, and may distribute light in anupward direction to illuminate at least a portion of the side surface670 of the trailer 666. The lighting apparatus 662 may extend around theperimeter of the trailer 666, if desired.

[0133] In some embodiments, the illustrative lighting apparatus 662 mayinclude a bumper, to help provide a level of protection to the loweredge 668 of the trailer 666. Such protection may be desirable when, forexample, the truck 660 is maneuvering into a loading dock or the like.While the illustrative lighting apparatus is shown mounted to a trucktrailer 666, it may also be mounted to the box of a straight truck, oreven to the cab 664, as desired. In addition, it is contemplated thatthe illustrative lighting apparatus 662 may be mounted to an upper edge672 of the cab 664 or trailer 666, and/or at an intermediate location,as desired.

[0134]FIG. 33 is a schematic view of an object, generally shown at 680,with an illustrative lighting apparatus 682 mounted to the side thereof.The object 680 may by any type of object. For example, the object 680may include retail and/or store shelving and/or equipment (includinggrocery store shelving and/or equipment such as refrigerated shelving),bars, desks, counters, walls such as in hallways or rooms, ceilings,railings, steps, and/or any other object or surface, as desired. Theillustrative lighting apparatus 682 is shown providing illumination inboth an upward and downward direction, although in some embodiments,illumination may be only provided in one direction, including in anoutward direction. In some embodiments, the lighting apparatus 682 mayinclude a bumper, such as described above. When so provided, thelighting apparatus 682 may help provide a level of protection to theobject 680.

[0135]FIG. 34 is a schematic view of a tow line 690 that includes anillustrative lighting apparatus in accordance with the presentinvention. A tug or other boat 692 is shown pulling one or more barges694 via tow line 690. It is contemplated that the tug boat 692, tow line690 and/or one or more barges 694 may be illuminated using a lightingapparatus in accordance with the present invention. The tow line 690 maybe illuminated by securing one or more light sources to the tow line690. For example, an electro-luminescent wire or Linear Emitting Fibermay be secured along the length of the tow line. Other types of lightsources may also be used. This may allow other boaters to more easilysee the tug boat 692, the tow line 690 and/or the barges 694 at night.

[0136] It is also contemplated that one or more light sources may beprovided on parked barges 694 to illuminate one or more sides surfacesof the barges 694. The one or more light sources may be incorporatedinto a lighting apparatus, as described herein. Barges are often fairlydark in color, and can be difficult to see at night. By illuminating oneor more side surfaces of the barges 694, boaters may more easily see theparked barges at night.

[0137]FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus in accordance with the present invention. In thisillustrative embodiment, an elongated carrier 696 is provided. Like someof the embodiments above, the elongated carrier 696 includes two legs698 a and 698 b that form a slot or opening for receiving an elongatedbumper member or insert 700. In some embodiments, the elongated carrier696 and/or the elongated bumper member 700 must be elastically deformed(e.g bent or otherwise deformed) for the elongated bumper member 700 toslip into the slot. To help aid the insertion of the elongated bumpermember 700 into the slot of the elongated carrier 696, the elongatedbumper member 700 may include one or more relief lumens 704 a and 704 b,if desired.

[0138] The elongated bumper member 700 may include a cavity 702. Theillustrative cavity 702 is adapted to receive an elongated light source(not shown), such as an electro-luminescent wire, a linear emittingfiber, or any other suitable elongated light source. The elongatedbumper member 700, or a portion thereof, may be formed from atransparent or semi-transparent material. The transparent orsemi-transparent material preferably defines at least part of the cavity702, and extends to an outer surface of the elongated bumper member 700.In the embodiment shown, portion 710 may be formed from a transparent orsemi-transparent material. When so provided, the light from theelongated light source may pass through the transparent orsemi-transparent portion of the elongated bumper member 700 and awayfrom the lighting apparatus.

[0139] To help aid with the insertion of the elongated light source intothe cavity 702, a slit 706 may be provided. The slit may extend from thecavity 702 to an outer surface 708 of the elongated bumper member 700.In the embodiment shown, the slit extends from the cavity 702 to theouter surface 708 adjacent the back of the carrier 698, but this is notrequired.

[0140]FIG. 36A is a cross-sectional side view of the elongated bumpermember (or insert) 700 of FIG. 35, with the slit 706 in the closedposition. In one embodiment, the slot of the elongated carrier 698 aswell as the shape and size of the elongated bumper member 700 areadapted so that when the elongated bumper member 700 is inserted intothe slot of the elongated carrier 698, the elongated carrier 698provides a closing force to keep the slit 706 in, or nearly in, theclosed position.

[0141]FIG. 36B is a cross-sectional side view of the elongated bumpermember (or insert) of FIG. 35, with the slit in an open position. In theillustrative embodiment, the elongated bumper member 700 is normally inthe closed position, as shown in FIG. 36A. To place the elongated bumpermember 700 in the open position, the elongated bumper member 700 is atleast partially elastically deformed (e.g bent or otherwise deformed) byapplying an outward force. Alternatively, the elongated bumper member700 may normally be in the open position, as shown in FIG. 36B. To placethe elongated bumper member 700 in the closed position, the elongatedbumper member 700 is at least partially elastically deformed (e.g bentor otherwise deformed) by applying an inward force. In either case, theelongated bumper member 700 may more easily receive an elongated lightsource (not shown) through the slit 706 when in the open position.

[0142]FIG. 36C is a cross-sectional side view of the insert of FIG. 35,with the slit in an open position and with a slit latching mechanism. Inthe illustrative embodiment, the slit latching mechanism includes a legwith a tooth 712, along with a matching receiving opening 714. As theelongated bumper member 700 is moved into the closed position, the leg712 slides into the matching receiving opening 714, and the tooth 712snaps into a corresponding opening in the receiving opening. Thelatching mechanism may help the elongated bumper member 700 remain inthe closed position.

[0143]FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus in accordance with the present invention. Thisillustrative embodiment is similar to that shown in FIG. 26. However,the receiving slot 720 for receiving the light source 722 may be wider,and may be used to direct light from the light source 722 to theelongated bumper member 724. The elongated bumper member 724 may theninclude a transparent or semi-transparent portion 726 that directs thelight received through the receiving slot 720 to an outer surface 728 ofthe elongated bumper member 724. In some embodiments, the entireelongated bumper member 724 may be made from a transparent orsemitransparent material. In other embodiments, only a portion of theelongated bumper member 724 is transparent or semi-transparent portion,as shown. In either case, the embodiment shown in FIG. 37 may allowlight from the light source 722 to be directed to multiple locations,such as down through a transparent or semi-transparent window 730 aswell as to the outer surface 728 of the elongated bumper member 724.

[0144]FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative rub-railwith nubs in accordance with the present invention. The illustrativerub-rail is generally shown at 740, and includes a carrier 742 and anelongated bumper member 744. The carrier 740 includes a back support746, a top support leg 748 and a bottom support leg 750. The top supportleg 748 and bottom support leg 750 are shown extending from the top 752and bottom 754 ends, respectively, of the back support 746 in a leftwarddirection. The top support leg 748 and bottom support leg 750 terminateto define a gap or slot 758 therebetween.

[0145] The bumper member 744 is shown positioned in the gap or slot 758.The bumper member 744 preferably has an outer portion 756 that is sizedto fit into the slot 758, and one or more inner facing legs 760 a and760 b that extend into the cavity formed by the top support leg 748 andbottom support leg 750 of the carrier 742. The one or more legs 760 aand 760 b preferably have a dimension that exceeds the lateral dimensionof the slot 758, which helps secure the bumper member 744 to the carrier742. In some embodiments, the bumper member 744 and/or carrier 742 areat least somewhat elastically deformable, so that the bumper member 744and/or the elongated carrier 742 can or must be elastically deformed(e.g bent or otherwise deformed) to allow the one or more legs 760 a and760 b of the bumper member 744 to slip through the slot 758. The bumpermember 744 may also have one or more relief holes or lumens, such asrelieve hole or lumen 762. Such relief holes or lumens may decrease therigidness of the bumper member 744, as desired.

[0146] One or both of the top support leg 748 and bottom support leg 750of the carrier 742 may have a nub, such as nub 764 a and/or 764 b. Thesenubs preferably extend inward into the cavity formed by the carrier 742.For example, nub 764 a of the top support leg 748 is shown extendingdown into the cavity of the carrier 742 toward the bottom support leg750. Likewise, nub 764 b of the bottom support leg 750 is shownextending up into the cavity of the carrier 742 toward the top supportleg 748.

[0147] In the illustrative embodiment, the top support leg 748 has anincreased thickness at nub 764 a, and the bottom support leg 750 has anincreased thickness at nub 764 b. In other embodiments, however, thethickness may remain relatively constant along the length of the topand/or bottom support legs, with both the inner surface and outersurface of the support legs extending inwardly to form the correspondingnub. Although the nubs 764 a and 764 b are shown near the distal end ofthe corresponding support leg away from the back member 746, it iscontemplated that the nubs may be placed anywhere along the top and/orbottom support legs 748 and 750, and/or along the back member 746 asdesired. In addition, multiple nubs may be placed along one or more ofthe top support leg, bottom support leg and/or back support 746, asdesired. The elongated bumper member 744 preferably is shaped to acceptthe one or more nubs provided on the top support leg, bottom support legand/or back support, as shown.

[0148]FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative lightingapparatus with nubs in accordance the present invention. This embodimentis similar to that shown in FIG. 38, but the elongated bumper member 768includes a cavity 770 for receiving a light source 772, as shown. Theelongated bumper member 768 is shaped to accept the nubs 764 a and 764 bprovided on the top support leg 748 and bottom support leg 750,respectively. That is, the elongated support member 768 includes anouter surface that is shaped to correspond to the inner surface of thecarrier 742, including nubs 764 a and 764 b. As indicated above, nubs764 a and 764 b do not need to be positioned at or near the distal endof the top support leg 748 and/or bottom support leg 750, but rather maybe positioned anywhere along the top support leg 748, bottom support leg750 and/or back support 746, depending on the application.

[0149] In the illustrative embodiment, the elongated support member 768may be made from a transparent or semitransparent material, oralternatively only a portion 774 (indicated by a dashed line) of theelongated support member 768 may be made from a transparent orsemitransparent material, with the remainder made from a substantiallynon-transparent material. In addition, the illustrative elongatedsupport member 768 includes a slit that extends from the cavity 770 tothe back outer surface 776 of the elongated support member 768 to aid inthe insertion of the elongated light source 772 into the cavity 770.

[0150]FIG. 40 is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative lightingapparatus for receiving an elongated light source. The illustrativelighting apparatus is shown generally at 800, and includes a body 802.The body 802 includes a cover portion 804, which together form a cavity806 for receiving an elongated light source 808. The body 802 may betransparent or semi-transparent, or substantially non-transparent,depending on the application. In one illustrative embodiment, the cover804 is transparent or semitransparent, and the remainder of the body 802is substantially non-transparent. The cover 804 may be shaped to form alens, but this is not required. In another illustrative embodiment, thecover 804 is substantially non-transparent and the remainder of the body802 is transparent or semi-transparent.

[0151] It is contemplated that the cover 804 may be formed integrallywith the remainder of the body 802 (such as by, for example, extrusion,co-extrusion, molding, or any other suitable method). Alternatively, thecover 804 may be formed separately from the remainder of the body 802.When formed separately from the remainder of the body 802, the cover 804may be later secured to the remainder of the body 802 by, for example, asnapping mechanism, an adhesive, screws, or any other suitable securingmethod. In some embodiments, the cover 804 is secured to the remainderof the body 802 after the elongated light source is inserted into thecavity 806.

[0152] In some embodiments, the body 802 may include a slit 810 thatextends from the cavity 806 to an outer surface of the body 802, such asouter surface 812. The slit 810 may be moved to an open position, by forexample applying an external outward force, which may help aid in theinsertion of the elongated light source 808 into the cavity 806 throughthe slit 810. Like other embodiments, it is contemplated that theillustrative lighting apparatus 800 may be mounted to, for example, anyobject including a boat, retail and/or store shelving and/or equipment(including grocery store shelving and/or equipment such as refrigeratedshelving), bars, desks, counters, walls such as in hallways or rooms,ceilings, railings, steps, and/or any other object or surface, asdesired. The body 802 may help provide a level of protection to theobject and/or a level of protection to the elongated light source.

[0153]FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus for receiving an elongated light source. Theillustrative lighting apparatus is shown generally at 820, and includesa body 822. The body 820 includes a cover portion 824, which togetherform a cavity 826 for receiving an elongated light source 828. In theillustrative embodiment, the cavity 826 is parabolic in shape, which insome embodiments, may help focus (by reflection) the light provided bythe elongated light source 828 toward the cover portion 824. The body822 may be transparent or semitransparent, or substantiallynon-transparent, depending on the application. In one illustrativeembodiment, the cover 824 is transparent or semi-transparent, and theremainder of the body 822 is substantially non-transparent. The cover824 may be flat or shaped to form a lens, as desired. In anotherillustrative embodiment, the cover 824 is substantially non-transparentand the remainder of the body 822 is transparent or semitransparent.

[0154] It is contemplated that the cover 824 may be formed integrallywith the remainder of the body 822 (such as by, for example, extrusion,co-extrusion, molding, or any other suitable method). Alternatively, thecover 824 may be formed separately from the remainder of the body 822.When formed separately from the remainder of the body 822, the cover 824may be later secured to the remainder of the body 822 by, for example, asnapping mechanism, an adhesive, screws, or any other suitable securingmethod. In some embodiments, the cover 824 is secured to the remainderof the body 822 after the elongated light source is inserted into thecavity 826.

[0155] In some embodiments, the body 822 may include a slit 830 thatextends from the cavity 826 to an outer surface of the body 822, such asouter surface 832. The slit 830 may be moved to an open position, by forexample applying an external outward force, which may help aid in theinsertion of the elongated light source 828 into the cavity 826 throughthe slit 830. It is contemplated that the illustrative lightingapparatus 820 may be mounted to, for example, any object includingboats, retail and/or store shelving and/or equipment (including grocerystore shelving and/or equipment such as refrigerated shelving), bars,desks, counters, walls such as in hallways or rooms, ceilings, railings,steps, and/or any other object or surface, as desired. The body 822 mayhelp provide a level of protection to the object and/or a level ofprotection to the elongated light source.

[0156]FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional side view of yet another illustrativelighting apparatus for receiving an elongated light source. Thisillustrative embodiment is similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 41,but the body 840 has a height 842 that is substantially greater than thethickness 844. In addition, the body 840 extends a substantial distancebeyond the cavity 846. In one example, the cavity may have a diameter onthe order of 0.050 inches, and the height 842 of the body 840 may be onthe order of 0.25 to 24 inches or more. In some embodiments, this mayprovide a relatively large protection area (represented by the height842 of the body 840) to an object.

[0157]FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus for receiving an elongated light source. Thisillustrative embodiment is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 42.However, the body 850 includes both a first material 852 that is atleast semi-transparent and a second material 854 that is substantiallynon-transparent. The at least semi-transparent material 852 is shownextending from the cavity 856 that houses the elongated light source 858to one or more outer surfaces 860 a and 860 b of the body 850. The atleast semi-transparent material 852 thus at least partially defines thecavity 856 and accepts light therefrom. The light is then delivered downthe at least semitransparent material 852 to the illuminate the one ormore outer surfaces 860 a and 860 b. In the illustrative embodiment, theouter surface 862 between the one or more outer surfaces 860 a and 860 bis substantially non-transparent, with the possible exception of coverportion 864, but this is not required.

[0158] It is contemplated that the one or more outer surfaces 860 a and860 b may be flat or may be shaped to form a lens, depending on theapplication. In addition, it is contemplated that the at leastsemi-transparent material 852 may have a higher index of refraction thanthe substantially non-transparent material 854, but this is notrequired. This may promote greater total internal reflection of thelight as it travels down the at least semi-transparent material 852,much like an optical fiber.

[0159] In one illustrative embodiment, the at least semi-transparentmaterial 852 may be integrally formed with the substantiallynon-transparent material 854. For example, the at least semi-transparentmaterial 852 may be co-extruded with the substantially nontransparentmaterial 854. Alternatively, the at least semi-transparent material 852may be separately formed from the substantially non-transparent material854, and subsequently mechanically secured together, as desired.

[0160]FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative lightingapparatus with one or more legs for securing the lighting apparatus to asubstrate. The illustrative lighting apparatus is generally shown at 880and includes a body 882. The body 882 includes a main body portion 883,a first leg 884 with a first tooth 886, and a second leg 888 with asecond tooth 890. In this illustrative embodiment, the first leg 884 andsecond leg 888 extend continuously along the length of the main bodyportion 883. The first leg 884 and the second leg 888 are shownextending away from the main body portion 883 at an angle 892 that isgreater than zero. However, in some embodiments, the angle 892 may bezero or even negative, depending on the application. The main bodyportion 883 is similar that shown in FIG. 40.

[0161]FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional side view of another illustrativelighting apparatus with one or more legs for securing the lightingapparatus to a substrate. This illustrative embodiment is similar to theembodiment shown in FIG. 44, except the first leg 896 and the second leg898 do not extend continuously along the length of the main body portion900. Rather, and in one embodiment, one or more first and second legpairs 896, 898 are provided periodically along the length of the mainbody portion. Only one first and second leg pair is shown.

[0162]FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional side view of the illustrativelighting apparatus of FIG. 45 with the first leg 896 and the second leg898 inserted through a substrate 902. As the first leg 896 and thesecond leg 898 are pushed through a hole in the substrate 902, the firstleg 896 and the second leg 898 are forced closer together, which maytemporarily elastically deforming the first leg 896 and the second leg898. Once the teeth reach the backside 904 of the substrate 902, thefirst leg 896 and the second leg 898 separate and the teeth engage thebackside 904 of the substrate 902 as shown. This may help secure theillustrative lighting apparatus to the substrate 902. The substrate maybe any type of substrate including, for example, wall board, plywood,cement, fiberglass, metal, or any other type of substrate, as desired.

[0163]FIG. 47 is a cross-sectional side view of yet another illustrativelighting apparatus attached to a substrate. The illustrative lightingapparatus is shown generally at 908, and includes an elongated body 910.The elongated body 910 includes a cover portion 912, which together forman elongated cavity 914 for receiving an elongated light source 916. Theelongated body 910 may be transparent or semi-transparent, orsubstantially non-transparent, depending on the application. In oneillustrative embodiment, the cover 912 is transparent orsemi-transparent, and the remainder of the body 910 is substantiallynon-transparent. The cover 912 may be shaped to form a lens, but this isnot required. In another illustrative embodiment, the cover 912 issubstantially non-transparent and the remainder of the body 910 istransparent or semi-transparent.

[0164] The elongated body 910 shown in FIG. 47 includes an upperextending leg 918 that extends upward from the remainder of the body910, and a lower extending leg 920 that extends downward from theremainder of the body 910. The upper extending leg 918 and lowerextending leg 920 may be relatively thin, and may extend outward fromthe remainder of the body 910 along a plane formed by the front face 926of the remainder of the body 910, but this is not required.

[0165] In one embodiment, the main body 910 is inserted into anappropriately sized recess or hole 922 in a substrate 924. The upperextending leg 918 and lower extending leg 920 preferably extend out pastthe upper and lower edges 930 a and 930 b of the elongated recess orhole 922, and engage the front face 932 of the substrate 924 as shown.In some embodiments, the upper extending leg 918 and lower extending leg920 are secured to the substrate by, for example, an adhesive, screws,or any other suitable securing method, as desired.

[0166] In some embodiments, the body does not extend to the backside 934of the substrate 924. When so provided, the illustrative lightingapparatus may not disturb objects behind the substrate, such as studs940 or any other members or objects behind the substrate 924. In otherembodiments, the body 910 may extend to or beyond the backside 934 ofthe substrate 924, as desired.

[0167]FIG. 48 is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative lightingapparatus for securing an elongated light source to a substrate. Thisembodiment may be particularly suitable for securing an elongated lightsource to a substrate that can be initially provided in a liquid orsemi-liquid state, and then cured or hardened to a more solid state. Theillustrative lighting apparatus is shown generally at 950, and includesan elongated member or body 952. The elongated member 952 includes acover 954, which together form a cavity 956 for receiving an elongatedlight source 958.

[0168] The elongated member or body 952 may be transparent orsemi-transparent, or substantially non-transparent, depending on theapplication. In one illustrative embodiment, the cover 954 istransparent or semi-transparent, and the remainder of the elongatedmember or body 952 is substantially non-transparent. The cover 954 maybe flat, or shaped to form a lens such as a convex lens shown by dottedline 960. In another illustrative embodiment, the cover 954 issubstantially non-transparent and the remainder of the elongated memberor body 952 is transparent or semi-transparent.

[0169] It is contemplated that the cover 954 may be formed integrallywith the remainder of the elongated member or body 952 (such as by, forexample, extrusion, co-extrusion, molding, or any other suitablemethod). Alternatively, the cover 954 may be formed separately from theremainder of the elongated member or body 952. When formed separatelyfrom the remainder of the elongated member or body 952, the cover 954may be later secured to the remainder of the elongated member or body952 by, for example, a snapping mechanism, an adhesive, screws, or anyother suitable securing method. In some embodiments, the cover 954 issecured to the remainder of the elongated member or body 952 after theelongated light source 958 is inserted into the cavity 956. In theillustrative embodiment, the cavity 956 is parabolic in shape to helpdirect (by reflection) the light produced by the elongated light source958 toward the cover 954, but this is not required.

[0170] In some embodiments, the elongated member or body 952 may includea removable portion 962, which may include the cavity 956, the elongatedlight source 958 and the cover 954. The removable portion 962 may thenbe selectively removed from the remainder of the elongated member orbody 952, as desired. This may be particularly useful when the remainderof the elongated member or body 952 is permanently secured to asubstrate, as further described below.

[0171] The elongated member or body 952 may have one or more legs, suchas legs 964 a, 964 b, 964 c and 964 d, which extend away from theremainder of the elongated member or body 952. In the embodiment shown,legs 964 a, 964 b, 964 c and 964 d may help secure the elongated memberor body 952 to the substrate 966.

[0172] As noted above, this illustrative embodiment may be particularlysuitable for securing an elongated light source to a substrate 966, andin particular, a substrate 966 that can initially be provided in aliquid or semi-liquid state, and then cured or hardened to a more solidstate. For example, the substrate 966 may be poured in a liquid orsemi-liquid state, and then the elongated member or body 952 may beinserted into the substrate 966 as shown. The liquid or semi-liquidsubstrate may flow around the legs 964 a, 964 b, 964 c and 964 d of theelongated member or body 952. When the substrate is cured or hardened toa more solid state, the elongated member or body 952 becomes secured tothe substrate 966, and in some cases, permanently secured to thesubstrate 966. In some embodiments, the substrate 966 may be, forexample, concrete, asphalt, plastic, fiberglass, foam, or any othermaterial that can be initially provided in a liquid or semi-liquidstate, and then cured or hardened to a more solid state. The substratemay be part of, for example, a roadway, an airport runway, a wall, afloor, a stair, a ceiling, a running track, a boat, a car, a truck, aretaining wall, a swimming pool, a guard rail, or any other suitablesurface or object, as desired.

[0173] In some embodiments, the elongated member or body 952 may beformed from a relatively rigid material, such as Vinyl, PVC, rubber,plastic, aluminum, or any other suitable material. When so provided, theremovable portion 962 may be formed from the same or a differentmaterial than the elongated member or body 952.

[0174] For some applications, the elongated member or body 952 may beformed from a relatively flexible or elastic material. This may beuseful when, for example, there is a difference in the coefficient ofthermal expansion between the substrate 966 and the elongated member orbody 952. Again, the removable portion 962 may be formed from the sameor a different material such as a more rigid material, depending on theapplication.

[0175]FIG. 49 is a cross-sectional side view of an illustrative lightingapparatus for use with a stair or other ledge. The illustrative lightingapparatus is generally shown at 1000, and includes an elongated memberor body that has a horizontally extending portion 1002 and a verticallyextending portion 1004. In some embodiments, either the horizontallyextending portion 1002 or the vertically extending portion 1004 may beomitted. The illustrative elongated member includes a cover portion1006, which together form a cavity 1008 for receiving an elongated lightsource 1010.

[0176] In the illustrative embodiment, the horizontally extendingportion 1002 of the elongated member includes both a first material 1012that is at least semi-transparent and a second material 1014 that issubstantially non-transparent. The at least semi-transparent material1012 is shown extending from the cavity 1008 that houses the elongatedlight source 1010 horizontally to one or more outer surfaces 1016 a and1016 b of the body. The at least semi-transparent material 1012 thus atleast partially defines the cavity 1008 and accepts light therefrom. Thelight is delivered down the at least semi-transparent material 1012 tothe illuminate the one or more outer surfaces 1016 a and 1016 b. In theillustrative embodiment, the outer surface 1018 between the one or moreouter surfaces 1016 a and 1016 b is substantially non-transparent, butthis is not required. It is contemplated that the one or more outersurfaces 1016 a and 1016 b may be flat or shaped to form a lens,depending on the application. In addition, it is contemplated that theat least semi-transparent material 1012 may have a higher index ofrefraction than the substantially non-transparent material 1014 topromote greater total internal reflection of the light as it travelsdown the at least semi-transparent material 1012, much like an opticalfiber.

[0177] The vertically extending portion 1004 of the elongated member mayalso include both a first material 1012 that is at leastsemi-transparent and a second material 1014 that is substantiallynon-transparent. The at least semi-transparent material 1012 is shownextending from the cavity 1008 that houses the elongated light source1010 vertically down to an outer surface 1020 of the body. The at leastsemi-transparent material 1012 thus receives light from the cavity 1008,and delivers at least some of the light down to the outer surface 1020.

[0178] In some embodiments, the elongated member may include a slit 1024that extends from the cavity 1008 to an outer surface of the body. Theslit 1024 may be moved to an open position, by for example applying anexternal outward force, which may help aid in the insertion of theelongated light source 1010 into the cavity 1008 through the slit 1024.

[0179] In one illustrative embodiment, the at least semi-transparentmaterial 1012 may be integrally formed with the substantiallynon-transparent material 1014. For example, the at leastsemi-transparent material 1012 may be co-extruded with the substantiallynontransparent material 1014. Alternatively, the at leastsemi-transparent material 1012 may be separately formed from thesubstantially non-transparent material 1014, and subsequentlymechanically secured together, as desired.

[0180] The illustrative lighting apparatus 1000 may be mounted to astair or other ledge as shown. The cavity 1008 is shown positionedadjacent the ledge 1022 of the stair or ledge. However, it iscontemplated that the cavity 1008 may be positioned anywhere along theelongated member, as desired, including adjacent the downward extendingsurface 1030 of the stair and/or adjacent the substantially horizontallyextending surface 1032 of the stair.

[0181]FIG. 50 is a schematic diagram of an illustrative appliance havingan elongated light source positioned along the body of the appliance. Insome applications, it may be desirable to include an elongated lightsource along the body of an appliance to increase the visual appeal ofthe appliance, and in some cases, provide low level lighting. Almost anyappliance may benefit, including household or office devices operated bygas or electric current. Some illustrative appliances include radios, CDplayers, DVD players, televisions, refrigerators, stoves, toasters,phones, etc.

[0182] In one illustrative embodiment of the present invention, theouter housing of an appliance is provided with an elongated cavity. Theterm cavity, as used throughout, may include an open cavity or a closedcavity. An open cavity is one that is open on one or more sides, and aclosed cavity is one that is closed on all sides. The elongated cavityextends along at least a portion of the outer housing, and is adapted toreceive an elongated light source, such as an electro-luminescent wire.The cavity is preferably at least partially defined by a material thatis at least partially transparent, and which extends to an outer surfaceof the housing. In some embodiments, the housing may also include asubstantially non-transparent material, which in some cases, may be atleast partially reflective. The substantially non-transparent materialmay include a surface that is shaped to reflect light toward the outersurface of the housing.

[0183]FIG. 50 shows one such appliance fitted with an elongated lightsource. The appliance shown in FIG. 50 is a portable music producingdevice. The portable music producing device includes an outer housing1050 that has an elongated cavity formed therein. An elongated lightsource, such as an electro-luminescent wire, is provided in theelongated cavity as shown at 1052 a, 1052 b and 1052 c. Each elongatedcavity is preferably at least partially defined by a material that is atleast partially transparent, and which extends to an outer surface ofthe housing 1050 so that the light produced by the elongated lightsource is visible to the user of the appliance. The elongated lightsource may receive power from the power source of the appliance. Aninverter may be required in some applications to produce the desiredpower signal to drive the elongated light source.

[0184] It is contemplated that the elongated light source may beswitched on or off by one or more signals of the appliance. For example,a switch may be provided on the appliance for turning the elongatedlight source on and off. In another example, the elongated light sourcemay be pulsed on and off by the changes in sound intensity produced bythe radio, or may just blink at a predetermined rate. In yet anotherexample, the elongated light source may be turned on when, for example,a toaster is toasting, and turned off when toasting is complete. Theseare just a few examples of controlling the elongated light source withone or more signals of an appliance.

[0185]FIG. 51 is a schematic diagram of an illustrative toy having anelongated light source positioned along the body of the toy. In someembodiments, it may be desirable to include an elongated light sourcealong the body of a toy to increase the visual appeal of the toy, and insome cases, provide low level lighting. Almost any toy may benefit,including toy swords, toy vehicle, board games, stuffed animals, etc.

[0186] In one illustrative embodiment, the outer shell or housing of atoy is provided with an elongated cavity. The elongated cavity extendsalong at least a portion of the outer shell or housing, and is adaptedto receive an elongated light source, such as an electro-luminescentwire. The cavity is preferably at least partially defined by a materialthat is at least partially transparent, and which extends to an outersurface of the outer shell or housing. In some embodiments, the shell orhousing may also include a substantially non-transparent material, whichin some cases, may be at least partially reflective. The substantiallynon-transparent material may include a surface that is shaped to reflectlight toward the outer surface of the housing.

[0187]FIG. 51 is a schematic diagram of an illustrative toy sword havingan elongated light source positioned along the body of the toy. The toysword is generally shown at 1060 and includes an outer shell or housing1062 that has an elongated cavity formed therein. An elongated lightsource, such as an electro-luminescent wire, is provided in theelongated cavity as shown at 1064. The elongated cavity is preferably atleast partially defined by a material that is at least partiallytransparent, and which extends to an outer surface of the housing 1062so that the light produced by the elongated light source is visible tothe user of the toy. The elongated light source may receive power fromthe toy. An inverter may be required in some applications to produce thedesired power signal to drive the elongated light source.

[0188] It is contemplated that the elongated light source may beswitched on or off by one or more signals of the toy. For example, aswitch may be provided on the toy for turning the elongated light sourceon and off. In another example, the elongated light source may be pulsedon and off by movement of the toy, or may just blink at a predeterminedrate. In yet another example, the elongated light source may be turnedon when, for example, the toy is brought close to another similarlyequipped toy. These are just a few examples of controlling the elongatedlight source with one or more signals of a toy.

[0189] In another illustrative embodiment, the toy may include an outershell, and may have a power source within the outer shell. The outershell may be a sturdy outer shell, or a more flexible outer shell suchas is common for stuff animals. In some embodiments, an inverter may beprovided within the outer shell and connected to an elongated lightsource, such as an electro-luminescent wire. At least part of theelongated light source preferably extends outside of the outer shell.For example, and in the case of a stuffed toy dog, the elongated lightsource may extend out of the outer shell and around the neck of the dogto produce an illuminated collar. In this embodiment, a separate cavityneed not be provided in the outer shell of the toy to accommodate theelongated light source.

[0190]FIG. 52 is a schematic diagram of a solar powered lightingapparatus. In this embodiment, an elongated light source such as anelectro-luminescent wire may be powered by one or more solar cells. Inthe illustrative embodiment shown, one or more solar cells 1070 receivelight from an external source such as the sun. The electrical powergenerated by the one or more solar cells 1070 is provided to a powerstorage block 1072, which may include one or more batteries or otherpower storage device(s). A controller and/or inverter 1074 block maythen be coupled to the power storage block 1072. The controller and/orinverter block 1074 may include an inverter to convert the powerreceived from the power storage block 1072 to an appropriate powersignal for the elongated light source 1076, such as anelectro-luminescent wire.

[0191] The controller and/or inverter block 1074 may also include acontroller for selectively enabling when power is delivered from thepower storage block 1072 to the elongated light source 1076. Forexample, the controller may include a timer to prevent power from beingdelivered to the elongated light source during certain parts of a day,such as during day time, while allowing power to be delivered to theelongated light source at other times of the day, such as during nighttime. In another example, the controller may be connected to a lightdetector 1078. The light detector 1078 may detect the ambient lightingconditions to determine when it is day time and night time. Thecontroller may use the output of the detector 1078 to disable power frombeing delivered to the elongated light source during the day time, whileenabling power to be delivered to the elongated light source during thenight time.

[0192] Having thus described the preferred embodiments of the presentinvention, those of skill in the art will readily appreciate that theteachings found herein may be applied to yet other embodiments withinthe scope of the claims hereto attached.

What is claimed is:
 1. An elongated light for receiving an elongatedlight source, comprising: an elongated member having a cavity forreceiving the elongated light source and an elongated slit that extendsfrom the cavity to an outer surface of the elongated member.
 2. Anelongated light according to claim 1 wherein at least part of theelongated member must be at least partially elastically deformed or bentto insert the elongated light source through the slit and into thecavity.
 3. An elongated light according to claim 1 further comprisingmeans for latching the slit into a closed position.
 4. An elongatedlight according to claim 1 wherein at least part of the cavity isdefined by an at least semi-transparent material that extends from thecavity to an outer surface of the elongated member.
 5. An elongatedlight according to claim 1 further comprising: an elongated carrier, theelongated carrier having a slot for receiving the elongated member, theslot and elongated member being adapted so that the elongated memberand/or the elongated carrier must be at least partially elasticallydeformed or bent to insert the elongated member into the slot.
 6. Anelongated light according to claim 5 wherein the slot and elongatedmember are adapted so that when the elongated member is in the slot, theelongated carrier provides a closing force to the elongated member tohelp keep the slit in the elongated member substantially closed.
 7. Anelongated light according to claim 1 wherein the elongated light sourceis an Electro-Luminescent wire.
 8. An elongated light according to claim1 wherein the elongated light source is a Linear Emitting Fiber.
 9. Anelongated light according to claim 1 wherein the slit in the elongatedmember is normally open so that the elongated light source may beinserted into the cavity, and wherein the elongated member must be atleast partially elastically deformed or bent to close the slit.
 10. Anelongated light according to claim 9 further comprising: an elongatedcarrier, the elongated carrier having a slot for receiving the elongatedmember, the slot and elongated member being adapted so that theelongated member and/or the elongated carrier must be at least partiallyelastically deformed or bent to insert the elongated member into theslot; and the slot and elongated member are adapted so that when theelongated member is in the slot, the elongated carrier provides aclosing force to the elongated member to help keep the slit in theelongated member substantially closed.
 11. An elongated light,comprising: an elongated light source; an elongated member having alength with a cavity, the cavity extending along at least a major lengthof the elongated member for receiving the elongated light source; and anelongated slit that extends along at least a major length of the cavity,the slit extending from the cavity to an outer surface of the elongatedmember.
 12. An elongated light according to claim 11 wherein at leastpart of the elongated member must be at least partially elasticallydeformed or bent to insert the elongated light source through the slitand into the cavity.
 13. An elongated light according to claim 11further comprising means for latching the slit into a closed position.14. An elongated light according to claim 11 wherein the slit in theelongated member is normally open so that the elongated light source maybe inserted into the cavity, and wherein the elongated member must be atleast partially elastically deformed or bent to close the slit.
 15. Anelongated light according to claim 11 further comprising: an elongatedcarrier, the elongated carrier having a slot for receiving the elongatedmember, the slot and elongated member being adapted so that theelongated member and/or the elongated carrier must be at least partiallyelastically deformed or bent to insert the elongated member into theslot; and the slot and elongated member are adapted so that when theelongated member is in the slot, the elongated carrier provides aclosing force to the elongated member to help keep the slit in theelongated member substantially closed.
 16. An elongated light accordingto claim 11 wherein at least part of the cavity is defined by an atleast semi-transparent material that extends from the cavity to an outersurface of the elongated member.
 17. An elongated light according toclaim 11 wherein the elongated light source is an Electro-Luminescentwire.
 18. An elongated light according to claim 11 wherein the elongatedlight source is a Linear Emitting Fiber.
 19. An elongated light,comprising: an electro-luminescent wire; an elongated member having alength with a cavity, the cavity extending along at least part of theelongated member and being adapted for receiving the electro-luminescentwire; and an elongated slit that extends along at least part of thecavity, the slit extending from the cavity to an outer surface of theelongated member.
 20. An elongated light according to claim 19 whereinat least part of the cavity is defined by an at least semi-transparentmaterial that extends from the cavity to an outer surface of theelongated member.